Sites to See Along the Katy Trail

Historic Stops, Small Towns, and Where to Stay Along Missouri’s Most Famous Rail Trail

Introduction

The Katy Trail State Park isn’t something you skim past at highway speed. It’s something you enter. Mile by mile, the trail slows you down—past river towns, grain silos, tunnels, coal towers, and storefronts that only make sense when experienced at trail pace.

This guide to sites to see along the Katy Trail is written from a different vantage point than most. It comes from Mile 100 in McKittrick, Missouri, by hosts who live and operate directly on the trail. That perspective matters, because there’s a difference between places you simply see and places worth stopping for, staying near, and experiencing overnight.

Rather than a drive-by sightseeing list, this post highlights historic Katy Trail landmarks, small river towns, and memorable trail stops—especially useful for cyclists and walkers planning multi-day trips. Some locations are iconic. Others are quiet and unexpected. All of them tell the deeper story of the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad and the communities that still exist because of it.

If you’re planning your ride, pacing your days, or deciding where to stop overnight on the Katy Trail, start here.

Conclusion

The Katy Trail isn’t memorable because it’s long—it’s memorable because it’s layered. Railroad infrastructure becomes folk art. Fuel stations become landmarks. Small towns become anchors. And the farther you ride, the more you realize the trail isn’t about checking miles off a list—it’s about choosing where to pause.

That’s why places like McKittrick matter. Why a coal tower still stands. Why cyclists remember the towns where they slept better than the exact miles they rode.

If your journey brings you to Mile 100.8, step off the trail and stay awhile. Experience the Katy Trail the way it was meant to be experienced—slowly, intentionally, and with enough time to remember it.

Katy Trail FAQ

Practical Questions Cyclists and Walkers Commonly Ask

How long is the Katy Trail?

The Katy Trail State Park stretches approximately 240 miles across Missouri, making it the longest rails-to-trails project in the United States. It runs from Machens, Missouri in the east to Clinton, Missouri in the west.

What are the best sites to see along the Katy Trail?

Some of the most popular and well-known Katy Trail attractions include:

• Lewis and Clark Boathouse in St. Charles

• Sunflower Silos near Defiance

• Rocheport Tunnel

• Boathenge near Easley

• McKittrick Coal Tower (Mile 100)

• Spirit of ’76 Caboose in Windsor

Many riders also enjoy smaller towns like Treloar, Peers, Boonville, and McKittrick for their history and quiet charm.

Where should I stop overnight on the Katy Trail?

Good overnight stops on the Katy Trail typically occur every 30–50 miles, depending on your riding pace. You will find many wonderful places to stay along the trail.

Popular overnight towns include:

• St. Charles

• Hermann

• Rocheport

• Boonville

• McKittrick (Mile 100.8)

• Clinton

Cyclists often look for lodging that offers direct trail access, secure bike storage, and walkable food options.

Is McKittrick a good place to stay on the Katy Trail?

Yes. McKittrick, Missouri sits directly on Mile 100.8 of the Katy Trail, making it a natural midpoint for multi-day riders. Its historic railroad infrastructure and quiet setting appeal to cyclists looking for a restful overnight stop rather than a busy tourist destination.

How many days does it take to ride the entire Katy Trail?

Most cyclists complete the full Katy Trail in 4 to 7 days, depending on daily mileage, weather conditions, and whether rest days are included. Many riders choose to ride the trail in sections over multiple trips.

Is the Katy Trail beginner-friendly?

Yes. The Katy Trail is mostly flat, crushed limestone, making it suitable for beginners, families, and long-distance cyclists. Hybrid and gravel bikes work best for trail conditions.

When is the best time to ride the Katy Trail?

The most popular times to ride the Katy Trail are April through June and September through October, when temperatures are moderate and Missouri river towns are most active. Summer riding is possible but can be hot and humid.

Tip: You can avoid the crowds by starting Mid March to Mid-April, July-August, and early November. Pay attention to weather forecasts, heat waves, cold fronts, and wind advisories.

Tip: The Mercantile on the Katy Trail in McKittrick keeps its water spouts open until Mid-November before the first winter freeze.